That’s probably the last time I’ll type 2018 right up there ^ and it feels pretty weird. The year 2019 sounds so futuristic and far away. When I close my eyes, I picture “Zenon” and “The Jetsons,” but I think the closest thing we have to those are iPads and Roombas … I’ll take what I can get. It seriously feels like 1998 was just 2 years ago!

I love the holiday season so much, but the minute Dec. 26 hits, I get sad. Sure, you still have New Years to look forward to, but knowing Christmas is over, I feel like some of the magic is gone. If I could relive September through December on loop, I would. Winter is my absolute favorite! It’s a time to reflect, a time to gather ‘round with family, a reminder of the greatest gift He gave us long ago. It’s a time for hot chocolate, cozy sweaters, crackling fires … and, of course, the best music for winter drives and late nights snuggled up on the couch. (Can I get an amen?)

Here’s my Winter 2018 playlist featuring some of my current favorites. I’ll keep adding to it throughout the season, too, so keep your ears peeled. (That sounds kind of gross, sorry). What have you been listening to lately? Drop it in the comments below!

It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year! November, December and January are my absolute favorite months — they’re filled with hopes, dreams and all winter things. If I could live in a snow globe, I would.

Also, side-note: Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton just released the music video for their Christmas jingle, ‘You Make It Feel Like Christmas,’ and it’s a hoot! It’s not part of this week’s playlist, but check out the video below anyway!

While I’ve been listening to a lot of holiday classics this season, I’ve also had many acoustic songs ready on deck for the cold, winter drives ... to Trader Joe’s. Hah. I kid. (But not really).

Here are some new releases and songs I’ve been loving lately:

1. Back to the Start — The Light the Heat

I stumbled upon The Light the Heat a while back and they’ve been on heavy rotation ever since! Their lyrics are laced with emotion and crafted with incredible instrumental detail. The nostalgia-filled ‘Back to the Start’ is the title track off their latest EP and if winter had a sound, this would be it.

2. Sometimes — Benjamin Francis Leftwich

I’ve never heard a Benjamin Francis Leftwich song I didn’t like. His acoustic melodies are my go-to for cozy nights in and ‘Sometimes’ is no exception.

3. Everything Goes (Wow) — Broods

New Zealand music duo, Broods, is back at it with another fun and carefree tune. The two recently opened for Taylor Swift in Australia and New Zealand and even more recently, announced their next album, Don’t Feed The Pop Monster, due out Feb. 1. ‘Everything Goes (Wow)’ is the first single off their forthcoming album.

4. Beloved — Mumford & Sons

The boys are back! ‘Beloved’ is undoubtedly my favorite track off the British band’s new album, Delta. They recently released videos for each song in coordination National Geographic and I’m in love. Check out the one for ‘Beloved’ below.

5. Glow - acoustic — Gavin James

Acoustic versions of songs always make me swoon. They feel more raw and emotional and this song makes me want to sit in a corner of a coffee shop, watching Gavin James perform it live. Also, those lyrics *single tear falls down face.*

Love, don’t let me go / If you feel the glow, out from the cold / If you love me tell me so (Oh)

6. Knees - Live 2018 — Peter and Kerry

’Knees’ is my absolute favorite Peter and Kerry song, so when I saw they released a live version I squealed and rushed to press play. Maybe not the most uplifting song, but its powerful emotion is that much more evident in the live version, no?

7. Between You and Me — Betty Who

I’m honestly surprised the first time I heard of Betty Who was on an episode of ‘The Bachelorette.’ ‘Between You & Me’ showcases her unique voice through its catchy beat and chorus.

8. Do I Know Your Name? — Donovan Woods

DONOVAN WOODS. Remember that name because this guy is magic. I recently stumbled upon him and I could listen to his stuff all day long. I also could have picked any song of his for this spot, but this 2016 tune has been on repeat over here. Also, ‘Portland, Maine.’

The retro-esque duo, Generationals, just dropped their latest single, ‘Silent Ocean,’ and I’m a sucker for their quirky, techno, new wave beats.

11. I Was Wrong - Acoustic Version — Ed Prosek

Another one of my favorites turned acoustic. ‘I Was Wrong’ is intimate, vulnerable and the first single off his upcoming EP. Ed Prosek, ladies and gents.

12. Home Alone, Too — The Staves

There’s no way I couldn’t include some kind of Christmas song! This trio of sisters just released this gloomy holiday tune (apparently, there is such a thing), and once again reminded us of their incredible harmonies. Also, props to whoever came up with the song name.

Hey! I’m Kassi, a twenty-something from good ol’ California. I love words, design and large cups of coffee. Most days you’ll find me in yoga pants, listening to Coldplay + diffusing some Northern Lights Black Spruce. Stay a while + say hey!